Territorial Behavior in the Workplace

The troll under the bridge is, literally and figuratively, a collaboration roadblock. He doesn’t care what you do on your own time, but anything that comes near his gate is going to be held up until the toll is paid. Even worse, sometimes there is no toll, just an endless series of deflections, delays, and barriers.

Collaboration is too important for turf war interference. Understand the territorial mindset and you can find a way not just to avoid the toll but to include the troll in your plans. Start by understanding that territory isn’t chosen by accident or chance—there are some very strong, primal motives that guide a territorial mindset, and they need to be carefully unraveled. Read More